I remember when I first found a new church home many years ago, one I wanted my family to join. I would attend alone for several weeks before my husband chose to attend with me and later also join. Though I asked, in the beginning, every week for him to join me, I ultimately let him make the decision when he was ready. We became active members and leaders in that church and remained for several years. Through that journey, I learned that my husband’s spiritual walk was one he had to be in charge of with my guidance and support. If you have ever wondered if you were helping your spouse grow spiritually, this article will explore 3 ways to encourage your spouse in their spiritual walk.
3 Ways to Encourage Your Spouse in Their Spiritual Walk
In This Article:
Create a Judgement Free Zone
As your spouse begins to understand their own spiritual walk and journey there will be questions and tests they will experience that might cause them to wonder if they are actually on the right path. Though your faith might be strong and your walk clear, if your spouse isn’t there yet you must come from a place of understanding and not judgment. It’s so easy to simply tell someone to trust God and do what the bible says without providing the teaching behind it and giving them a safe space to learn. You can create that safe space for your spouse. When they come to you with questions, be willing to answer them and refer to scripture to help them further in their study. While helping your spouse grow spiritually, remember to pray for and pray with your spouse as they start this walk. And be willing to teach them how to pray, again without any judgment and with lots of understanding. Encourage your spouse by being there with them through the journey. Remember, your walk is not their walk and some patience and support will also be required.
Share Your Testimony
When you think about what makes a believer a believer it’s usually based on what they’ve been able to see. Seeing someone healed or witnessing someone overcome their struggles is the proof most people need to actually begin to believe in a Higher Power. Another way you can aid in helping your spouse grow spiritually is by telling your story. What have you been healed from or protected from? Where has God shown up in your life or more importantly where has God shown up for you and your family? It might be helpful to remind your spouse of where God has been in your lives. Those moments where you couldn’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, think about who turned that around for you and encourage your spouse to do the same. Sometimes people forget and can only see their current situation. It’s our responsibility to make sure we never forget where our blessings flow. Ask your spouse to consider the situations they have overcome as they begin their spiritual walk. Then recommend that you and your spouse create a Gratitude Journal where you keep track of all the times God has shown up for you both. You can create the journal together or have your spouse create one on their own. Either way, it is important to capture the moments God has blessed your family as often as possible.
Lead By Example
Your spiritual walk should be an example you would want your spouse to follow. Your spouse will be encouraged by seeing how you respond and react to certain situations; they are watching and learning from you even when you aren’t actually teaching. If they can’t see God in you, it might be harder for them to even desire to grow spiritually. Let what you learn from studying the Word, attending church, and even through your own life experiences be evident in how you speak and act towards your spouse. You have to ask yourself “Do I draw others to God or do I send them in the opposite direction with my actions?” It is important to be mindful of what you put on display as you encourage your spouse. Also, remember that connecting your spouse to a spiritual leader would also be beneficial. A Pastor or ministry leader could provide additional guidance to your spouse as they begin to grow in this area.
A spiritual walk is such a personal journey. It might be difficult for you to see how you can support your spouse in this area. You might want them to attend church with you regularly, or participate in bible study, and they just may not be there quite yet. Have patience as they navigate through this crucial point in their life. Be supportive and encouraging, while listening with no judgment as they grow. Again, be willing to share your own testimony and let your actions show clearly who you are spiritually. You have the power to guide your spouse and use your life as an example for helping your spouse grow spiritually and how to have a real relationship with God. Don’t take that for granted!
BMWK, how have you encouraged your spouse in their spiritual walk? What tips would you give for helping your spouse grow spiritually?
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